Construction projects are ramping up with the start of the new year, and with snow falling throughout many parts of the country, those same projects are being met with more risk. Heavy snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures all create extra obstacles, including increased injury risk, damage to equipment and costly interruptions.

Reduce the unpredictability of winter weather and keep projects moving forward with the following idea starters.

Prepare workers for the cold

Due to the outdoor nature of many construction projects, workers are susceptible to injuries and illnesses caused by cold stress, which occurs when the body can no longer maintain its normal temperature. Potential risks include hypothermia, frostbite and increased odds of soft tissue or back injuries.

Before the start of every workweek, check the expected temperatures and suggest appropriate winter clothing employees may need. Layered clothing is often recommended because it provides the insulation necessary to stay warm, while allowing workers to take layers off if they begin to sweat. If worksite conditions become wet or damp, risks may even worsen, therefore it’s best to encourage teams to bring extra backup clothes. The following are additional items recommended by OSHA:

• at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, including an inner layer of wool, silk or synthetic (polypropylene) to keep moisture away from the body, a middle layer of wool or synthetic to provide insulation even when wet, and an outer wind and rain protection layer that allows some ventilation to prevent overheating;
• insulated coat or jacket that’s water resistant if necessary;
• knit mask to cover face and mouth;
• hat that coversworker’s ears;
• insulated gloves that are water resistant; and
• insulated and waterproof boots to protect feet.

Even when the proper precautions are taken, cold stress can unexpectedly creep up. Make it a priority to educate employees on the common symptoms associated with cold illness. When done right, employees should be able to recognize early warning signs of cold illness in team members. Refer to the CDC’s cold illness guide for further symptom descriptions and first aid treatments.

Lower snow and ice risk

In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics documented 244,000 cases involving slips, trips and falls. During wintertime, the risk of these cases can heighten due to the thawing and freezing effects of snow and ice. Challenges often found across construction projects during winter months, including tips for keeping sites safer, include:

• Hazard: Trip hazards such as tire ruts, grade stakes, pallets and loose materials become hidden and more difficult to remove below snow. Tip: Create a checklist and increased cadence for de-cluttering and clearing jobsites during winter months. Outline a plan that describes expectations around and outside of the jobsite, and inside any buildings where windows aren’t installed.
• Hazard: Snow-covered concrete blankets or tarps placed prior to snowfall create a slip hazard for employees who unknowingly walk on them. Tip: Mark the corners of concrete blankets and tarps to warn employees of the surface they’re walking on. Markings should be raised to remain noticeable above snowfall.
• Hazard: Light snow coverings get packed down during the early phases of construction, creating a slippery environment throughout the jobsite. Tip: Maintain a supply of sand to spread on walking surfaces to improve traction. If employees such as mix and dump truck drivers travel to sites where ground conditions are out of their control, encourage them to carry a small supply of sand or cat litter in their cab. This is especially important if they get out of their vehicle several times a day.

Stay safe above ground

• Scaffolding: When teams are working from heights throughout winter, snow- and ice-covered scaffolding can pose added fall risks. In fact, OSHA prohibits employees from working on scaffolds covered with snow, ice or other slippery conditions unless they’re removing those hazards. In areas where winter enclosures aren’t required, some contractors may stack two planks together to reduce snow buildup on walking surfaces, however this creates an improperly decked scaffold. Discuss additional controls such as tie offs if this option is considered. Another risk includes standing planks on an edge, which increases wind load—causing them to blow off, or even topple, the scaffold.
• Winter enclosures: Winter enclosures set up around the jobsite may also increase wind loads, which can result in scaffold collapses, injuries and fatalities. Before creating winter enclosures, ensure employees adequately brace or anchor the structure to withstand strong winds.
• Roof work: Like scaffolding, work involving a roof requires its own set of pre-planning before snowfall. Before employees step foot on a roof, designate safe areas for snow to land to avoid striking others on the ground. Methods for snow removal may vary and require different safeguards.

A shovel and broom might be adequate in some cases, however if workers need to melt frost off wood sheeting with a torch, special precautions such as a hot work permit are warranted. Finally, make sure employees can attach to accessible anchor points before proceeding throughout the roof.

These are just a few of many precautions to consider this winter. While the coldest season of the year doesn’t always receive the same caution and attention given to other weather events, the risks are clear. Remind the team of winter jobsite hazards and continue monitoring the recommendations of local experts or an attorney as new weather developments occur. Most importantly, stay warm and stay safe.